Greetings on this the Thursday in the Octave of Easter
Readings: Acts 3:11-26; Psalm 8:2ab and 5, 6-7, 8-9; Luke 24:35-48
Summary
Peter’s Speech
As the crippled man who had been cured clung to Peter and John, all the people hurried in amazement toward them in the portico called “Solomon’s Portico.” When Peter saw this, he addressed the people. And by faith in his name (Jesus), this man, whom you see and know, his name has made strong, and the faith that comes through it has given him this perfect health, in the presence of all of you (Acts 3:11-12a, 16).
The Appearance to the Disciples in Jerusalem
The disciples of Jesus recounted what had taken place along the way, and how they had come to recognize him in the breaking of bread. While they were still speaking about this, he stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be with you. Look at my hands and my feet, that it is I myself. Touch me and see, because a ghost does not have flesh and bones as you can see I have.” (Lk 24:36-37, 39).
Reflection
Solomon’s Portico is a place of teaching and shelter for all who come to the Temple. It is in this place the crippled man was healed and clings to Peter and John. Jesus himself having Resurrected and returned to his disciples has flesh and bone – as the Church is in his name – flesh and bone.
There are plenty of days we can be critical of and make suggestions for changes in the Church. By all means, do so! But today? Remember to cling to Peter and John.
Jesus who came back in flesh and bone, Peter and John, flesh and bones stand in Solomon’s Portico offering shelter, healing, and teaching.
Personal Reflection
But they were startled and terrified and thought that they were seeing a ghost (Lk 24:37).
The world can be a startling and terrifying place. The Church – at times – can seem like a ghost – not real or imagery only.
But, no. The Church is bread, flesh and bone. The Church is the gift Jesus leaves all of us until the End of Time.
Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/040926.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry